†Noca's Pov†
"Lumiere of House Velric!" a loud voice shot across the crowded pack square, echoing off the space. A young lady stepped out onto the stage. She was red-haired, the strands so vividly crimson that they shimmered beneath the evening sun's glare.
The crowd erupted in cheers as I watched in silence. Many roared her name, proud to see her chosen by her family as a candidate, while others kept their mouths sealed, their eyes darting about nervously.
"Those are the wolves caught a few days ago, Alpha," my beta murmured from behind me. "They disobeyed the decree. I heard the boy has shown no signs of recovery. If he fails to answer when his name is called, they will all be beheaded according to the terms they accepted."
I gave a slow nod, my gaze fixed on the people before flickering toward Ariadne, seated by the side. Her eyes were restless, darting toward the platform as though she waited for someone or feared his name being called now.
